ICT IGCSE Theory

4.1 Networks
Chapter 4: Networks and the effects of using them

• Understand how a router works and its purpose

• Understand the use of other common network devices, including: network interface
cards, hubs, bridges, switches, modems
• Understand the use of WiFi and Bluetooth in networks
• Understand how to set up and configure a small network, including: access to the
internet, the use of a browser, the use of email, access to an ISP
• Understand the characteristics and purpose of common network environments, such
as intranets and the internet
• Understand the advantages and disadvantages of using different types of computer to
access the internet

ICT IGCSE
 ICT IGCSE Theory
4.1 Networks
Chapter 4: Networks and the effects of using them

Overview What is a Computer Network?

A network is two or more
Workstation computers, or other electronic
devices, connected together so
that they can exchange data.

For example a network allows:

• Computers to share files

Internet Router Switch • Users to message each other
• Share Resources

Network connections between

computers are typically created
Wireless using cables (wires) or via
Access Bridge wireless signals.
Point

Cables
Wireless
Switch
ICT IGCSE
 ICT IGCSE Theory
4.1 Networks
Chapter 4: Networks and the effects of using them

Overview

Advantages of using Networks

• Easily share files and data.
• Share resources such as printers and Internet connections.
• Communicate with other network users (e-mail, instant messaging,
video-conferencing, etc.)
• Store data centrally (using a file server) for ease of access and
back-up.
• Keep all of our settings centrally so we can use any
workstation.

Disadvantages of using Networks

• Greater risk of hackers.
• Greater risk of viruses (spreading and disabling network).
• The significant cost of extra equipment.
• When the network is down computers can not be used as
standalone computers.
• Print queues can be long.

ICT IGCSE
 ICT IGCSE Theory
4.1 Networks
Chapter 4: Networks and the effects of using them

Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of using a computer network?

Exam Question

The advantages of using a computer network is that it is easier to share files and
data. Also resources such as one printer can be shared with many workstations
(computers). However printer ques could be long. Since all the computers are
connected together there is a greater risk of hackers or viruses spreading which
could disable the network. In addition the cost (expenditure) of the equipment
could be significant. Furthermore a network will allow data to be stored centrally
which will means files can be accessed from any work station on the network. Also
central settings can be applied to all work stations for example restrictions in
changing computer settings from the control panel.

ICT IGCSE
 ICT IGCSE Theory
4.1 Networks
Chapter 4: Networks and the effects of using them

Understand how a router works and its purpose

Data Packets contain the R R

following information:
Router

• Header to identify S Switch

Data
Packet. Outgoing Data
• Sender and Receivers IP
S R Incoming Data
address.
Internet
• Number of data packets
making up the whole
message.

• Connects network/computers to the internet

• Connects LANs/networks together
• Transfers data between networks (Receives and Sends Data Packets)
• Router can connect to devices using cables or wireless signals.
• It stores information about which computer is connected to which
network

ICT IGCSE
 ICT IGCSE Theory
4.1 Networks
Chapter 4: Networks and the effects of using them

Understand how a router works and its purpose

Web Pages are stored on Web Servers. Web

Server
Webpages have unique IP address &
domain names to R Route
find/communicate with each other. r
S
R R R
Outgoing Data
Incoming Data

Internet
S R

Routers direct packets of data across

the internet to its destination. R R

Everything connected to the internet has an IP Address.

ICT IGCSE
 ICT IGCSE Theory
4.1 Networks
Chapter 4: Networks and the effects of using them

Common Network Devices

A Hub and a Switch both connect a number of computers together to make a LAN.

Switch Hub

Smart Device Dumb Device

Sends specific packets of data to Sends data packets to all the

specific computers on the LAN using workstations on the network which
workstations unique MAC addresses. causes network traffic.

More secure however more expensive Poor Security

Normally used in larger networks Only would be suitable for a small

found in schools, offices etc. home networks.

ICT IGCSE
 ICT IGCSE Theory
4.1 Networks
Chapter 4: Networks and the effects of using them

Common Network Devices: Switch

Switch Ports Workstation connect to switch ports. Each

1 2 3 4 Network Card has a unique address (MAC
ADDRESS) which switches can use to
identify a workstation.

2 2
You always start Switch Table
with an empty 1 S 3 1 3
Work
Mac S
switch table. station
Address
The switch will 1 AA-AA-AA 4 4
learn each
2 BB-BB-BB
workstations Sending Packets of Data from Sending Packets of Data from
MAC address 3 Workstation 1 – 2 Workstation 2 – 1
when it sends a
4 The switch will send data Now the switch table has the
packet of data
across the packets to all computers MAC address for workstation 1
because it does not know the it is possible for workstation 2
network.
MAC address for Workstation 2. to send a direct pack of data.

ICT IGCSE
 ICT IGCSE Theory
4.1 Networks
Chapter 4: Networks and the effects of using them

Compare and contrast the use of a Router and a Switch?

Exam Question

The router is used to connect Local Area Networks together to form a Wide Area
Networks and also to the internet. The router will transfer data been networks
using IP addresses to direct information. The switch is used to connect computers
together to create a LAN. Each workstation connected to the network will have its
own MAC addresss. The router will learn each work stations MAC address in order
to send specific packets of data to the correct workstation.

ICT IGCSE
 ICT IGCSE Theory
4.1 Networks
Chapter 4: Networks and the effects of using them

A router is connected to a LAN. Describe the function of a router?

Exam Question

Routers inspect and read the IP address of the data packets sent to it. The
router will the sends the data packet to a switch with that IP address.

Describe the details of computer addresses that are stored by a router.

The Router stores IP addresses. IP address is a unique identifier set up by network

manager/ISP. An IP address consists of 4 numbers separated by full stops. The router
also stores MAC addresses. MAC address is usually hard coded by manufacturer
which means it never changes.

ICT IGCSE
 ICT IGCSE Theory
4.1 Networks
Chapter 4: Networks and the effects of using them

Common Network Devices

Modems Analogue <<< Digital Modems convert analogue signals from a

telephone line to digital signals which can be
read by the computer.

The Modem also converts digital signals back

into analogue for transmission over telephone
Analogue >>> Digital lines.

Network Interface Card

Network Interface Card (NIC) allows you to
connect a device to the network. The NIC will
contain the MAC address which will be used to
identify the computer to the network.

Bridges
A bridge is used to connect two parts of a LAN network together
so they function as a single LAN. Two Switches can be connected
using a the Bridge Device.
Switch Bridge Switch

ICT IGCSE
 ICT IGCSE Theory
4.1 Networks
Chapter 4: Networks and the effects of using them

Understand the use of WiFi and Bluetooth in networks

• Limited area of network

• Strength of signal is weaker
• Possible slow data transfer speeds
• Easier to hack into/less secure
• Physical obstacles can interfere with signal/can
cause disconnection
WiFi is a wireless networking technology makes it possible to connect devices with a wireless
connection to a
network or to a single computer .
• Reduced cost of cabling/Safer – won’t trip over wires
• Easier to connect other devices to the network
• Makes the computer portable as long as it’s within range of the wireless access point
• Very slow data transfer speeds
• Short distance of coverage/limited signal strength
• Greater risk of interception of data/less secure
• Supports a limited number of devices in a network

Bluetooth is a wireless networking technology designed for very short-range connections.

• Connecting wireless devices such as mouse, phone, headset to a computer which are close in proximity.
• Transferring files between devices.
• Printing Wirelessly from a Tablet or Mobile Phone.

ICT IGCSE
 ICT IGCSE Theory
4.1 Networks
Chapter 4: Networks and the effects of using them

Bluetooth and WiFi can connect devices together.

Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of using Bluetooth or WiFi.

Exam Question

Bluetooth is more useful when transferring data between two devices whereas
WiFi is more suited to full scale networks. The devices connected via Bluetooth
should be near to each other wh ereas WiFi has a larger range. Less data tends to
be transferred with Bluetooth . Bluetooth uses a lower bandwidth which means
data transfer speeds are slower compare to WiFI. WiFi has better security than
Bluetooth however the cost of Bluetooth is cheaper than WiFi.

Bluetooth and Wifi both use wireless technology which means there is no need for
cables. This reduces costs and trip hazards. Bluetooth is more energy efficient than
wifi

ICT IGCSE
 ICT IGCSE Theory
4.1 Networks
Chapter 4: Networks and the effects of using them

Methods which can be used to connect computers to networks.

WiFi: Using WIFI can allow you to connect to the internet from any
room in a house without the use of cables.
In addition multiple devices can be connected at the same time.

Satellite: Satellite can be used almost anywhere in

the world. Since it connects via satellites it has
better coverage. Its general use is for the internet.

3G / 4G: 3G and 4G are used in smart phones to connect

wirelessly to Internet. Allows for access on the move even
within areas with no WiFi. 3G and 4G is not affected by rain
or snow as it as a form of satellite communication.

ICT IGCSE
 ICT IGCSE Theory
4.1 Networks
Chapter 4: Networks and the effects of using them

Many computer networks are connected using cables for some are now
connected using wireless technology. Discuss the advantages and
disadvantages of using wireless networks compared to using cabled
networks.
Exam
Question
The advantage of using wireless networks is that it can increase the range of the
network making it easier to add additional devices and computers. With a cabled
network you would be restricted to the amount of networks ports. Furthermore it
could potentially be a cheaper alternative as you would not have to buy cables and
modify the building. In contrast the wireless signal could be limited and therefore
weaker in some parts of the network due to physical obstacles. The cabled network
would provide a more stable and quicker connection.

ICT IGCSE
 ICT IGCSE Theory
4.1 Networks
Setting up a Network
Chapter 4: Networks and the effects of using them

ISP (Internet Service Provider)

Set up an account with an Internet Service Provider (ISP) to
receive an internet connection to your location
Web Browser: Router:
To connect your LAN to the Internet (WAN)
To browse the internet.
Switch/Hub:
To connect Network Devices together using
Email: cables.

To send email messages including Network Cables:

attachments to other users. To create physical connections.

Security: Firewall:
To keep network secure from external threats.
Anti Virus/Spyware software to protect your
computer from external threats Servers:
(Viruses/Hackers) To manage network functions such as network
security, network file storage, share resources
etc.

ICT IGCSE
 ICT IGCSE Theory
4.1 Networks
Chapter 4: Networks and the effects of using them

Describe what an ISP is and, apart from security measures, describe what
it offers its customers.

Exam Question

Internet Service Provider (ISP) provides Internet access. ISPs often offers web
space and domain name to create own website. Also the ISP provides users with
an email address. The ISP also provides a router to connect to the internet. In
addition they may also offer storage space to save data in the cloud.

ICT IGCSE
 ICT IGCSE Theory
4.1 Networks
Chapter 4: Networks and the effects of using them

Common network environments

LAN • LAN is a Local Area Network

• LAN covers a small area (normally
confined to one building or within
a close proximity).
• LAN consists of number of
computers and devices that The most common
usually connect to a switch which examples of WAN is the
is connected to a router. internet.

WAN • A WAN is Wide Area Network is a

network that extends over a large
geographical area.

• A WAN is often created by joining

several LANs together.

• Routers are used to connect LAN

networks to form a WAN Network.

ICT IGCSE
 ICT IGCSE Theory
4.1 Networks
Chapter 4: Networks and the effects of using them

Common network environments

WLAN
• A wireless LAN (WLAN) is a LAN that uses
AP
radio signals (WiFi) to connect
computers instead of cables.

• Devices know Access Points (AP) are

connected to the wired network at fixed
AP
locations.

• These devices provide the wireless access

to devices on the network.

AP • It is much more convenient to use wireless

connections instead of running long wires
all over a building.

ICT IGCSE
 ICT IGCSE Theory
4.1 Networks
Chapter 4: Networks and the effects of using them

Describe the differences between the common network environments

(LAN, WAN, WLAN)?

Exam Question
LAN (Local Area Network) WAN (Wide Area Network) WLAN (Wireless Local Area Network)
 Smaller geographical area  Larger geographical area  Uses wireless signals to connect
 Confined to one building  LANs connected together devices
form a WAN  Access Points are connected to
the wired networks.

Local Area Networks (LANs) normally cover a smaller geographical area confined
normally to one building. Wide Area Networks are LANs which have been
connected together with a router. They normally co ver a larger geographic area .
The connection between the LANs could either be with cables or satellite signals.
Wireless Local Area Networks use wireless signals to connect devices. Access
Points are connected to the wired networks.

ICT IGCSE
 ICT IGCSE Theory
4.1 Networks
Chapter 4: Networks and the effects of using them

Intranets and the Internet

Internet • Internet is Public (available to all Typical uses of an internet would be:
users)
• Internet is network of networks • Viewing web pages
• Internet is global • Sending and receiving e-mail messages
• Internet has more information than • Sharing files
an intranet • Communicating using voice (VOIP)
and video (video-conferencing)
• Playing multi-player games
• Streaming Video/audio Content
• Online Shopping/Banking

Intranet • Intranet is within one organisation Typical uses of an intranet would be:
(Private)
• Intranets tend to be • Viewing internal web pages (e.g.
policed/managed company schools, university's etc.)
• Intranet has an • Internal e-mail and instant-
extra layer of messaging between workers
security • Sharing of internal
documents
• Data found in an intranet is likely to
be more reliable/relevant than that
found on the Internet

ICT IGCSE
 ICT IGCSE Theory
4.1 Networks
Chapter 4: Networks and the effects of using them

Describe the differences between the internet and intranet?

Exam Question

Internet is global network of networks. It is open to the public domain whereas the
intranet is private and normally within on organisation. The intranet requires
authentication to log on which provides an extra layer of security. Information
found on the intranet will more reliable and relevant then the internet because the
intranet tends to be policed/managed. However more information is available on
the internet.

Give three reasons why some companies have intranets?

It is possible to prevent employees accessing undesirable websites. The company

can ensure that available information is specific to their needs. Also it will make it is
easier to make sure confidential messages stay within the company. Furthermore
there is less chance of company computers being hacked.
ICT IGCSE
 ICT IGCSE Theory
4.1 Networks
Chapter 4: Networks and the effects of using them

In order to make reliable information available to all students, schools

often put the information on their intranet. Describe what is meant by an
intranet?
Exam
Question
An intranet is a computer network which normally exists usually within one
organisation. The intranet meets the internal needs of an organization . Intranet is
private and tends to be policed or managed . Intranet has an extra layer of security
and data found in an intranet is likely to be more relevant to the users’ needs.

ICT IGCSE
 ICT IGCSE Theory
4.1 Networks
Chapter 4: Networks and the effects of using them

Accessing the Internet

Device Advantages Disadvantages

laptop computers • More portable and smaller in size compared • Touch pad may be difficult to
to desktop computers. use to navigate webpages.
• Bigger screens compared to tablets and • Processors are not as fast as
phones. desktop computers.

Desktop • Stable internet connection since the • Has to be connected to a

connection is normally wired. power supply at all times.
• Use of input devices including pointing • Not portable.
devices to make navigation easier.

Tablets • Tablet: More portable than desktops/laptops • Signal strength dependant on

however less than phones. location.
• Smaller display screen.
• Mobile: Portable: Easy to carry around and • Not all websites designed to
use whilst on the move. be used by mobiles/tablets.
• Touch screen may be
Smart Phones • Mobile: Always likely to have a mobile difficult
phone to use.
at all times.
• Limited battery Life.
• Mobile: Can access internet via phone
networks (4G)

ICT IGCSE